Everyone wants to have a safe and happy Halloween. The Gallup Fire Department wants remind people that there are many ways to keep your child safe on Halloween and offers the following Halloween safety tips:
Costumes
• Purchase costumes made of flame retardant material (Check the label).
• Costumes that are bright are easier to see at night.
• Use make-up rather than masks. If a child does wear a mask, make sure it does not restrict vision or breathing.
• For younger children especially, put a name tag with phone number and address in their costume in case they are found separated from others.
• Give your children glow sticks, glow rings or flashlights. You can also put reflective tape on their costumes to make them more visible to drivers.
Trick-or-treating
• It’s best, especially for younger children, to trick-or-treat before its dark outside.
• Have children stay in groups.
• Keep your children within your eyesight.
• For older trick-or-treaters: if they are out without parental supervision, know where they are going, keep in touch throughout the night and agree on a time for them to return home.
• Inspect candy before children eat it; if it's not wrapped, throw it away. If in doubt, throw it out.
Home decorations
• Spray decorations with flame retardants if possible.
• Do not use open flames; use battery-operated candles for jack-o-lanterns or other decorations.
• If using dry ice, keep out of reach of children.
• Remember, if you are driving on Halloween, take care and slow down….watch out for trick-or-treaters who will be too busy to watch out for you.
The Gallup Fire Department hopes that these safety tips will help you have a fun and safe Halloween this year.